326
Video Game Design Composition
If you hold a rock above the ground, the rock has potential energy relative
to the ground. The potential energy of the rock is formed by the force of gravity
pulling the rock toward the ground. When you let the rock fall, the potential
energy is transformed into kinetic energy as it moves toward the ground.
When the rock hits, the kinetic energy of the rock transforms into sound and
vibration. It is also likely that the rock and the ground have morphed in the
collision. The rock may break and the ground may have an impact crater.
In video game design, an artist must understand morphing and create
objects and systems that change shape. A classic example of morphing that
can be seen in many video games is water. Dropping a pebble in a pond
creates motion ripples as the energy moves through the water. The waves
crash against a shoreline. The water system must morph as it moves energy
through the water.
An important consideration in game art is to follow conservation of
matter
in a morph. Conservation of matter means that all mass content must be the
same before and after an interaction. If a rock is broken up, the sum of the pieces
will have the same mass as the
whole rock. When morphing
a game object, the mass must
appear to remain constant. Take
the example of a car crash. The
car will morph as the parts
wrinkle and break, but the mass
of the car and its pieces should
appear to be the same.
Play at least two different types of games.
Compare and contrast how the elements of
motion are applied in each game.
UP!
11.1
Type of Potential Energy Example
Gravitational Falling object, planetary rotation
Elastic Stretched rubber band, spring
Chemical Stick of dynamite, lead-acid battery
Electrical Lightning, capacitor
Magnetic Earth’s poles, refrigerator magnets
Figure 11-5.
Potential energy can be in several different forms.
Goodheart-Willcox Publisher
CHEAT CODE: MATTER
Matter is what makes up a physical
object.